JOINT pain is a common ailment and whether caused by injuries, arthritis or simple wear and tear, it can make walking, exercise and even going away on holiday a real pain.

A joint massage gel made from green-lipped mussels could ease joint pain

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint.

In the UK, around 10 million people have arthritis. It affects people of all ages, including children and commonly affects the hands, spine, knees and hips.

NHS Choices said there's no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatments that can help slow down the condition including over-the-counter pain killers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids.

But a new gel, which contains the extract of the green-lipped Mussel is billed as the 'best' product for soothing joint aches and pains.

"Laboratory and animal studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and are important for maintaining joint cell structure and function, and this might be one of the ways green-lipped mussel works in some people.”

GETTY

The gel can be taken at the same time as painkillers

The producers also say the gel is the only product on the market which boasts 100 per cent Perna extract.

A spokesman for the Pernaton Gel, said: “This summer, don’t let joint pain deter you from your travel plans: enjoy yourself by including one essential item in your suitcase.

“Natural joint massage gel Pernaton, can help whether you are visiting historic sites, or strolling on the beach, by instantly cooling aching joints and easing the discomfort of muscle pain.

The producers say the gel is ‘non-greasy and full of natural goodness’ as the original perna extra used in Pernaton Gel is a natural source of ‘unique, nourishing and soothing substances’.

GETTY

The gel is billed as 'non-greasy and full of natural goodness'

Strange hybrid animals that are hard to believe are real

Mon, July 30, 2018

This list of REAL hybrid animals will surprise and amaze you

It also includes other natural ingredients - such as menthol, pine needle oil and other essential oils - which when massaged into the skin can help increase circulation around the joints and relax stiff, aching muscles.

A spokesman added: “The gel is really easy to use: simply massage it into the affected areas regularly or when required.

“It won’t slow you down, as gel is absorbed quickly into the skin creating an instant cooling affect and has a fresh and pleasant aroma. The natural gel also contains a high content of Glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and Omega-3 fatty acids.”

Results from a scientific trial into the benefits of the green-lipped mussel on osteoarthritis, published by Arthritis Research UK, said: “The number of participants involved in the trials included in this review ranged from 30–80.

“The trials lasted between three and six months. Three of these trials (two of which were low quality) compared the potential beneficial effects of green-lipped mussel supplements with placebo capsules. The fourth trial, also of low quality, compared the effectiveness of two forms of the compound (the lipid extract versus powder).

“Green-lipped mussel was more effective than a placebo in reducing pain, improving function and improving overall quality of life when taken along with usual painkillers (for example paracetamol) and NSAIDs.

“Both forms were effective, with 73 per cent of the lipid group and 87 per cent of the powder group showing significant improvement.”

Experts said Pernaton Gel provides instant relief, and as a natural gel, can also be used alongside pain relief medications, if required.